There is no right or wrong reason to seek orthopedic care.  Some basic guidelines to follow:

If you’re experiencing pain in your muscles, joints, or bones or you have problems with your joints, you may wonder whether to see a doctor. If you have any of the following symptoms, we recommend you make an appointment with your physician to be evaluated.

1. You Have Difficulty Performing Everyday Activities.

Bone and joint discomfort is common in older people, but it should not inhibit your daily activities. If you struggle to perform simple tasks such as climbing stairs or walking your dog, you should see an orthopedist.

2. You Suffer From Chronic Pain.

Chronic pain is often defined as any pain lasting longer than 12 weeks. Experiencing a few days of discomfort is one thing, but after several weeks and months of it, you should strongly consider seeking professional help.  You might want to also consult with an interventional pain management specialist.

3. Your Range Of Motion Is Becoming Limited.

Are your joints feeling tighter and tighter as the days go by? A limited range of motion can signify joint disease such as arthritis. It’s important to see a licensed specialist as soon as possible to prevent your condition from getting worse.  You might also consider a physical therapy consultation.

4. You Experience Instability While Walking Or Standing.

Do you feel shaky or wobbly when performing basic functions such as standing, walking, sitting down or standing up? This is a sure sign that something is wrong with your joints. Your best option is to consult with a medical professional in order to determine the cause of your instability, and work on correcting it.

5. You Have Suffered A Soft Tissue Injury That Has Not Improved In 48 Hours.

Have you recently suffered from a soft tissue injury, such as a sprained ankle, twisted knee, or busted wrist? Is there pain and swelling that has not subsided within 2 days?  If you have not noticed any major improvements after the first 48 hours, call a doctor and ask them for their earliest available appointment.  You might also consider going to a local Urgent Care. 

There are a number of medical specialties that treat musculoskeletal conditions, such as arthritis, chronic pain, and injury. Orthopedic doctors and surgeons, rheumatologists, neurologists, rehabilitation medicine doctors, and physical therapists all treat some conditions that relate to the muscles, bones, and joints. 

Once you’ve decided that you need to see a doctor, contact your primary care doctor to see if they have any recommendations or reach out to the Clark County Medical Society.